Xbox Game Pass Members Can Still Get New Game Launches for Less Than $30 Monthly
Following Microsoft's recent announcement of an extensive restructuring of its gaming subscription tiers, the tech giant has clarified what these changes mean for players who currently hold an Xbox Game Pass for Console active. According to Xbox, subscribers who presently maintains a grandfathered Console subscription with recurring payments turned on will not be affected by the updated cost changes.
Latest Changes to Game Pass Tiers
Just a few days ago, Xbox announced that its top-tier plan will be priced at $29.99 monthly, a controversial move among members. This change accompanies two renamed tiers—Essential and Premium—which modify the service's offerings and do not include day-one game releases. This shift came after a prior change in 2024, which phased out the Console plan in exchange for Core and Standard tiers. Back then, Xbox permitted current members on the Console plan to retain their membership at the same price of $11 per month with all perks, including access to day-one releases.
“Players who are currently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal enabled can maintain their subscription,” a representative stated. “If players disable automatic payment renewal, or their membership expires, they will need to choose between the Essential, Premium, Ultimate, or PC Game Pass plans when rejoining.”
Perks and Pricing Stay the Same
The perks and monthly fee of the Console plan will remain the same, as confirmed by Xbox: “New releases are available with Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions, as well as for members who still have an current Game Pass for Console. Gamers who are currently enrolled in Xbox Game Pass for Console and have recurring billing enabled can continue their membership at $10.99/month.”
When asked, a company representative declined to specify for what duration grandfathered Console plans will remain active for existing members.
How to Check If You Are On a Console Plan
- Go to the official Game Pass page and sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Click your profile name in the upper-right section of the screen once signed in.
- Choose “My Microsoft Account.”
- If you see “Console subscription” shown as an active subscription, you will continue to get day-one games for $11 a month as long as recurring payments are turned on.
Be sure to check if you still have this golden ticket before canceling your subscription, as you won’t be able to rejoin the plan once you opt out.
